KARACHI: Karachi’s University of Karachi, in collaboration with the Department of Political Science and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization, hosted a seminar commemorating the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-Russia relations. The event, titled “75 Years of Pakistan-Russia Relations: An Emerging Partnership,” was held at the Chinese Teachers Memorial Auditorium, and it featured discussions on the historical journey of these two nations.
Russian Consul General in Karachi, Andrey Viktotovich Fedorov, was the chief guest of the event, offering insights into the long-standing ties between the two countries. He highlighted that the foundation of these relations was laid on May 1, 1948, and over the decades, there have been numerous historic milestones and developmental phases.
One of the significant achievements of this partnership was the establishment of crucial projects like the Pakistan Steel Mill in Karachi and the Guddu Thermal Power Station in Northern Sindh, which have played vital roles in Pakistan’s industrial growth.
On September 13, Russian Ambassador Danila Ganich delivered speech “Russia-Pakistan Relations, and the Way Ahead” to audience of @IPRI_Pak . Topical bilateral, regional and international issues were covered. Leading Pakistani think tanks and media took part in event.@mfa_russia pic.twitter.com/7F3F35hJcz
— RusEmbassy_Pakistan (@RusEmbPakistan) September 13, 2023
Fedorov also emphasized the importance of the Tashkent Declaration, an important moment in diplomatic history that solidified the rich legacy of Pakistan-Russia relations. He expressed the need to preserve this legacy and spoke optimistically about the strengthening of bilateral ties.
In recent times, the relationship has seen remarkable progress, marked by the Russia-Pakistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation held in Islamabad earlier in the year. Both nations have expressed a willingness to collaborate in various sectors, including energy, trade, economy, culture, and education.
The energy sector, in particular, holds immense potential, with agreements like the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline and the commencement of crude oil supplies from Russia to Pakistan. Trade between the two countries has also witnessed growth, with a direct shipping line established from St. Petersburg and Vladivostok to Karachi, facilitating trade partnerships.
Fedorov acknowledged Pakistan’s balanced approach to international issues, highlighting its constructive stance on global matters. He emphasized that the emerging partnership between Russia and Pakistan exemplifies a mutual aspiration for a democratic and fair world order based on international law.
University of Karachi Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi underscored the enduring nature of Pakistan-Russia relations, tested and strengthened over seven decades. He stressed the importance of policies aligned with the needs and interests of the common people, particularly economic prosperity.
Pakistan-Russia Bilateral Trade Volume
Bilateral trade between the two countries has seen a significant boost, increasing from US$567 million in 2021-22 to US$760 million this year. Dr. Khalid Iraqi suggested that a strong partnership in the energy sector could further enhance Pakistan’s economic prospects.
He also proposed the establishment of a Russian language center on the university campus, facilitating cultural and academic exchange between the two nations.
The seminar highlighted the deepening ties between Pakistan and Russia, showcasing their shared commitment to mutual development and regional stability.
